India-Africa summit deferred amid Ebola scare in parts of continent

New Delhi: India and the African Union on Thursday decided to postpone the Fourth India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS IV), which was scheduled to take place in New Delhi from May 28 to 31, amid the evolving public health situation in parts of Africa linked to the Ebola scare.

The two sides exchanged views on the evolving health situation in parts of Africa and reaffirmed the importance of continued cooperation in strengthening public health preparedness and response capacities across the continent, including through support to Africa CDC and relevant national institutions, according to a joint statement.

India reaffirmed its solidarity with the peoples and Governments of Africa and expressed its readiness to contribute to Africa CDC-led efforts aimed at addressing the evolving health situation, in line with the shared commitment to an Africa-led response.


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"Recognising the importance of ensuring the full participation and engagement of African leaders and stakeholders, and mindful of the emerging public health situation on the continent, consultations were held between the Government of India, the chairperson of the African Union, and the African Union Commission regarding the holding of the Summit and associated activities," according to the statement.

Following these consultations, the two sides agreed that it would be advisable to convene the Fourth India-Africa Forum Summit at a later date. New dates for the Summit and its associated meetings will be finalised through mutual consultations and communicated in due course, it has been learnt. Over 30 heads of state and governments had confirmed their presence at the Summit.